STAFF, residents and day clients at a West Devon care home recently celebrated 50 years since its royal opening.

Harewood House in Tavistock was built by Devon County Council and was officially opened in October 1961 by Princess Mary, the Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood.

The Princess, after arriving at Tavistock North railway station, formed part of a six-car royal procession which made its way through the streets of the town. Local people lined the streets and gathered at the entrance to Harewood House where there was a guard of honour by Tavistock Girl Guides and Brownies.

Opening the home the princess said: 'It is a great thing that you have done here in erecting this fine building for the old folk, in which they can find rest and peace in their declining years.

' I am happy this home should be called Harewood, for when I am in my own home in Yorkshire, sitting by the fireside in the long winter evenings, I shall be able to think of this other Harewood in the West Country.'

Fifty years on and the house played host to a party in celebration of the anniversary.

Allan Rimmer, day centre manager, said: 'We had a buffet lunch, music and dancing. It was excellent, everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves.'